Relieve Anxiety and Depression for International Students
International students arriving in Canada face a completely new living environment, academic challenges, and cultural differences. These changes often lead to emotional fluctuations, even causing anxiety and depression. Students from East Asian culinary cultures, due to significant dietary differences, are more likely to experience psychological impacts. In the process of adapting to a new environment, students may feel lonely, stressed, and confused. If these emotional problems are not addressed in a timely manner, they may affect academic performance and overall quality of life. Therefore, understanding and mastering methods to alleviate anxiety and depression is crucial for new international students in Canada.
First, seeking professional help is an effective way to deal with emotional issues. In the province of Alberta, international students can utilize the various mental health services provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS). AHS offers services including psychological counseling, therapy, and support groups, usually available at local hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. Additionally, AHS has a 24/7 mental health hotline for those in need of immediate assistance. In Calgary, there are numerous mental health resources specifically for international students, such as the University of Calgary and Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) student health centers, which provide psychological counseling and emergency mental health services. The University of Alberta in Edmonton also offers comprehensive mental health services, with organizations like “The Support Network” and “Momentum Walk-In Counselling” providing immediate counseling services.
Second, building a strong support system is also very important. Joining international student organizations, participating in school club activities, and interacting with the local community can help students meet new friends and reduce feelings of loneliness. These social activities not only expand social networks but also provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. International students from East Asian culinary cultures may find it difficult to adapt to local dietary habits. Solutions to this problem include finding local Asian supermarkets and restaurants, cooking familiar dishes from home, and sharing dietary experiences and resources with other students from similar cultural backgrounds, which can help alleviate homesickness to some extent.
Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can effectively alleviate stress and emotional issues. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep not only contribute to physical health but also promote mental health. Learning to manage stress through time management and relaxation techniques can help students better cope with academic pressure and life challenges. Engaging in favorite activities or volunteer services not only diverts attention but also enhances self-worth and happiness. Being patient with oneself, gradually adapting to the new environment, and understanding the normality of emotional fluctuations are important mindsets for overcoming anxiety and depression. Through these methods, new international students in Canada can better cope with emotional challenges and enjoy every moment of their study abroad experience. If the situation is severe, it is essential to seek professional help in a timely manner and not bear the pressure alone.
Common Stress Sources and Coping Methods for New International Students in Alberta:
- Common Stress Sources
- Public Health Care Resources
- Academic Challenges and Coping Strategies
- Work-Related Challenges and Coping Strategies
- Other Challenges and Coping Strategies
1.Common Sources of Stress and Impact
- Climate: The continental climate means cold winters, often facing cold waves from the Arctic.
- Language: There is often a gap between academic English and everyday practical use.
- Academics: Different formats of exams and assignments present challenges, alongside language issues.
- Work: Different job-seeking and workplace cultures, taxes, and net income can be challenging.
- Other Factors: Issues related to residence visas, housing, transportation, and healthcare.
2.Public Health Care Resources Provincial Resources
Government Public Resources:
- Alberta Health Services (AHS): Offers addiction and mental health care.
- Provides a 24-hour mental health hotline.
Public Health Care Resources Metropolitan Area Public Resources:
- Calgary: 24/7 mental health hotline and student health centers at the University of Calgary and Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.
- Edmonton: Student health centers at the University of Alberta and Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.
- Lethbridge: Canadian Mental Health Association (Southern Alberta branch).
3.Academic Challenges and Coping Strategies
Challenges:
- Different learning models and large amounts of information can cause students to fall behind.
- Differences in understanding and using intellectual property.
Coping Strategies:
- Use AI-based editing and translation software appropriately, but avoid using generated content for assignments.
- Properly cite and reference sources to avoid misunderstandings.
4.Work-Related Challenges and Coping Strategies
Challenges:
- Work permit policies have tightened, leading to competition from those with post-graduate work permits, making job searching difficult.
Coping Strategies:
- Eligible students can work part-time to earn living expenses and build local networks.
- Seek co-op and practicum opportunities, even if they are not part of the graduation diploma.
5.Other Challenges and Coping Strategies
Challenges:
- Dietary habits impact: Obtaining ingredients and cooking utensils can be difficult.
- Homesickness.
- Visa and residency issues.
- Inflation and rising living costs.
Coping Strategies:
- Join student associations on and off-campus, especially hometown associations, and participate in various dining activities.
- Consult a licensed professional immigration consultant or lawyer for visa issues.
- Take intensive courses to earn credits faster, graduate early, and start earning money sooner.
